Medical Assistance

Please note: The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the entities or individuals whose names appear on the following lists. Inclusion on this list is in no way an endorsement by the Department or the U.S. government. Names are listed alphabetically, and the order in which they appear has no other significance. The information on the list is provided directly by the local service providers; the Department is not in a position to vouch for such information.

A visitor to Denmark faces no special health hazards as the overall health conditions are excellent. No special inoculations are required. Any needed immunization is available in Copenhagen. Although Danish law is strict about commercial processing, cooking, handling, and serving of foods, consumers are advised to show caution when using eggs and preparing poultry, as salmonella bacteria may be been found in these products from time to time. Milk and all tap water is safe to drink.

Because Denmark is almost entirely surrounded by sea, it has a moderate, maritime climate. The average temperatures range from 32F in February to 70F in July. Temperatures vary slightly from day to night. Average annual rainfall is 24 inches. Days are short in winter, with about 5 hours of daylight in December and January. Daylight in summer lasts 16 18 hours on clear days.

Danish medical care is of high quality and is comparable to the medical care one finds throughout Western Europe. Diagnostic laboratories and specialists are available in all fields of medicine.. Hospitals are well equipped, and doctors and dentists speak at least some English.

The system for providing care in Denmark is different from that in the United States.

Danish citizens and permanent residents of Denmark qualify for free hospitalization and medical treatment under the Danish National Health Service. However, medical treatment and hospital care, covered by the Danish National Health Service, may require referral from a general practitioner, which often creates long waiting periods. To avoid waiting time in these situations, patients may choose to seek medical and hospital care from private suppliers and pay for the care provided. Tourists do not qualify for treatment under the Danish National Health Service, except in cases of emergency. If, however, the medical facility determines that the emergency occurred as a result of a pre-existing condition, the tourist must be prepared to pay for all services received.

Most medicines are available locally. They may not, however, be the same brand names as those used in the United States. Prices are generally higher than in the U.S. Tourists should bring a supply of the medicine that they know they will need. The medicine must be carried in its original container, and should be accompanied by a copy of the prescription together with a statement from their doctor. Medication sent by mail will be intercepted by Danish Customs before release to the intended recipient. If the medication is prohibited in the EU, the medication will be destroyed.

The Embassy assumes no responsibility for the professional ability or integrity of the persons whose names appear on this list.

American tourists are reminded that medical services cannot be provided free of charge, as the Danish National Health Service does not cover visitors to Denmark. It is therefore recommended to obtain an estimate of the cost involved before receiving any services. It is also important to telephone the doctor’s office for an appointment. A list of general practitioners in your area can be obtained by contacting your local Census Office.